Why Quartz Worktops are Ideal for Any Kitchen

 

If you have admired quartz worktops featured on the pages of interior design magazines, and assumed these are only suitable for large open-plan concepts, you may be surprised to know that quartz is an ideal choice for kitchens of any size and style. Quartz is an engineered stone which has been manufactured by combining a high percentage of quartz crystals with other natural minerals, coloured pigments, and a polymer binding resin. This produces a stone which is versatile, hard-wearing and visually appealing. Whether you have a compact galley kitchen or a spacious open-plan layout, quartz work surfaces can be tailored to suit your needs without compromising on design or performance.

AffordableGranite is an independent Stone Fabricator and Installer of high-grade quartz kitchen worktops based in Charlwood, Surrey. Established in 2003, they have seen the increasing demand for quartz as a kitchen worktop material in homes throughout the South East of England, and beyond. One of the biggest advantages of quartz is its ability to mimic the appearance of natural stone such as granite or marble, and to also offer stunning, contemporary designs with eclectic tones. Due to the engineering process, the stone is available in a wide range of colours and patterns, making it easy to complement both modern and traditional kitchen styles. In smaller kitchens, the paler, muted shades of quartz are light-reflecting, creating a sense of space, while in the larger kitchen, darker hues or more dramatic designs add depth and character.

Another key benefit is the durability of quartz worktops in a busy, multi-use kitchen. The resin binder introduced during manufacture ensures the quartz is highly resistant to scratches, chips, stains, and bacterial growth. This provides a hygienic surface which is essential for food preparation and daily kitchen tasks. 

Maintenance is also minimal. Unlike natural stone, quartz kitchen worktops don’t require sealing or special treatments, and a simple cleaning regime with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive detergent is all that’s needed to keep the surface looking pristine.

You may also like to consider that quartz offers design flexibility in terms of shape and installation. Your bespoke quartz worktops can be cut to fit unusual layouts, islands, or integrated features, making the stone suitable for kitchens with unique dimensions. With the combination of durability, style options, and the benefit of a low-maintenance work surface, quartz is a practical and attractive option for any kitchen.

The Affordable Granite team are always available to give advice during the planning stage of your new kitchen, and throughout the end-to-end project. A basic stock range of quartz can also be viewed and selected at their Surrey workshops.  Call us today on 01293 863992 or use the Contact Form on our website to get in touch

 

Read More

The Difference Between Quartz and Granite Worktops

    

Based in Surrey, Affordable Granite has been fabricating and installing high quality stone worktops for homes throughout the South East of England and beyond for over 20 years. Customers commonly ask about the difference between quartz and granite worktops. If you are planning the installation of a kitchen in a new-build property, or are upgrading an outdated one, there are several facts to consider. Stone kitchen work surfaces have risen in popularity during recent years, with granite or quartz being on the top of the wish-list to create a stunning and practical space in the home. However these two stones differ in composition, appearance, maintenance, and performance.

Granite: This is a natural stone which has formed within the Earth’s crust from cooled magma. Each granite slab is unique, featuring variations in colour, veining, and patterns which reflect the minerals present during formation, and are specific to the global site where the stone has been extracted. This individuality is a major appeal for those who want a one-of-a-kind worktop. Granite is extremely hard-wearing, making it ideal for busy multi-use kitchens.  However, because granite is porous, it requires periodic sealing to prevent stains, moisture absorption, and bacterial growth. Without proper sealing, spills such as oil or wine can penetrate the surface and leave marks. Affordable Granite professionally seal the stone during fabrication, and re-application of a recommended sealant can easily be carried out at home when required to preserve the luminosity and protect the durability of the surface.

Quartz: Unlike granite, quartz is an engineered stone which has been manufactured with high-tech machinery by combining crushed quartz crystals with a smaller percentage of other natural minerals, polymer resins and coloured pigments. This manufacturing process results in a non-porous material that is highly resistant to staining, scratches, and bacterial growth. One of quartz’s biggest advantages is its low maintenance, as it doesn’t require sealing and is easy to clean with mild soap and water. While granite varies in shade and veining throughout the slab and can have naturally occurring fissures, quartz kitchen worktops have a consistent appearance, which appeals to those who prefer uniformity of colour and pattern. In addition, quartz is available in a wider spectrum of colours, many of which closely mimic marble or granite.

Both quartz and granite worktops provide the opportunity to enhance the kitchen space in-keeping with your home lifestyle and interior design concept. These stone work surfaces can be a wise investment for both the present and the long-term value of your property, with timeless appeal. The friendly and experienced Affordable Granite team are available to discuss your plans and advise on the options available to suit your aspirations and available budget.  Call us today on 01293 863992 or use the Contact Form on our website to get in touch.

Read More

Quartz Kitchen Worktops For a Home Upgrade

 

If you are planning an upgrade of your home kitchen, choosing the right work surfaces is one of the most crucial design decisions, as they will determine both the ambiance, and how smoothly the space works. Affordable Granite is an independent Stone Fabricator and Installer of high grade quartz kitchen worktops, with over 20 years of industry experience. Their highly professional team know that from a design perspective, worktops anchor the entire space.

Unlike granite and marble, quartz is an engineered stone, consisting of a high percentage of crushed quartz crystals, and a lower content of other natural minerals. During the hi-tech manufacturing process coloured pigments and a binding resin are combined to produce an exceptionally hard-wearing stone with eclectic shades and patterns. These replicate natural stones so closely, the difference isn’t easily apparent. The colour and texture of quartz worktops influence the personality of the kitchen, whether it’s a warm and relaxing vibe, sleek and vibrant, or timelessly elegant. A boldly-veined stone can add movement and character, while a minimalist surface creates a sense of calm and visual balance. As worktops are often the focal point, the wrong choice can overwhelm a room, while the right one will tie together cabinetry, flooring, and lighting.

Kitchens are commonly high activity, multi-use spaces, and quartz worktops will withstand stains, moisture, spills, and daily wear. As a binding resin is combined during manufacture, quartz won’t require periodic sealing, minimising maintenance to retain a stunning, non-porous, and hygienic surface which can last for decades. 

The friendly and experienced Affordable Granite team are available to answer all your questions, and to guide you through the end-to-end project. Quartz held in stock can be viewed and selected at their workshops in Charlwood, Surrey, and all work will be completed to the highest standards by the in-house team of skilled craftsmen.

Elevating your home with quartz kitchen worktops is an investment in timeless design, functionality, and lasting appreciation.  Call us today on 01293 863992 or use the Contact Form on our website to get in touch.

Read More

Kitchen upgrades with quartz worktops

 You may well have admired kitchens with stone work surfaces, and assumed these are marble or granite. Quartz worktops can easily be mistaken for natural stone as they are engineered to mimic the same appearance with remarkable precision. Advanced manufacturing techniques allow quartz to replicate the intricate veining, colour variations, and textured patterns typically found in natural materials. Quartz worktops offer consistent designs, with patterns crafted to look authentically random, just like the variations present in granite or marble.

 

The increase in working and studying from home has resulted in lifestyle changes for many. The kitchen has evolved into a multi-use hub, often resulting in a culinary space which no longer meets your needs, both practically and in visual appeal.
Affordable Granite is a Surrey-based, leading South East Stone Fabricator, and has seen an increasing demand for quartz kitchen worktops as a great alternative to natural stone, due to the advantages it provides. Unlike granite, quartz doesn’t require sealing to protect the surface from stains, water absorption or bacterial growth. During manufacture, a polymer resin is combined with a crushed quartz, other natural minerals and coloured pigments. The result is an exceptionally hard and resistant stone, with an eclectic range of shades and patterns.

 

Your present kitchen may feel outdated, and not compatible with your interior design style, and in a newly purchased property this may well call for an extensive remodel to achieve your vision. Quartz slabs held in stock can be viewed in the Affordable Granite factory in Charlwood, and customers are encouraged to create a simple mood board with cuttings from design magazines, fabric swatches and paint samples. The stone can then be selected to suit any kitchen style and enhance the home ambiance.  

 

Quartz introduces a feel-good factor to any kitchen. The hues and stunning patterns available in this man-made stone present the opportunity to create a personalised kitchen, with a subtle twist for traditional base cabinetry or a bold contemporary statement with bright pops of dramatic colour. Affordable Granite offers an end-to-end supply and fit service for your quartz kitchen worktops, and the in-house team of skilled craftsmen are committed to ensuring your new kitchen space compliments your home to perfection.  For more information call us on 01293 863992 or use the Contact Form to get in touch.

Read More

Style and practicality with quartz worktops in the UK

If you are planning an upgrade of an outdated or inefficient kitchen, you may have chosen stone work surfaces due to their long term durability. Established in 2003, Affordable Granite is a family-owned Stone Fabricator and Installer of high-grade quartz worktops, and has seen the rise in popularity of this engineered stone over recent years. Quartz certainly has a lot in its favour as a perfect paring of style and practicality. Your home is an extension of your personality, a space where visual appeal meets functionality to create an environment that reflects your lifestyle. Quartz worktops are a great choice for a modern kitchen, providing a hard-wearing surface, versatility, and aesthetic appeal to complement any interior design scheme or personal taste.

One of the defining traits of quartz kitchen worktops is their variety. Available in aneclectic spectrum of colours and patterns, homeowners have the opportunity to customise their kitchens to reflect a unique style. For a sleek, contemporary vibe, or a cosy and warm ambiance, quartz will bring any design theme together, especially in an open-plan concept where cohesion is a high priority.

Quartz worktops are also low maintenance. For anyone who values efficiency, the easy to clean, non-porous surface is resistant to stains, scratches and bacterial growth, making it ideal in a multi-use kitchen, where spills will inevitably happen, and hygiene is of prime importance. Unlike natural stones such as granite, there will be no need for periodic sealing.

Ultimately, quartz worktops bridge the gap between form and function, allowing you to express your personality and lifestyle while enhancing your kitchen’s efficiency. Whether you prioritize modern minimalism, timeless elegance, or family-friendly utility, quartz kitchen work surfaces will enable you to showcase your style with a stunning and value-added addition to your home.

Affordable Granite has an in-house team of highly skilled craftsmen with an unparalleled reputation for delivering a customer-focused service at every stage of your new kitchen project. This expertise ensures your high-grade quartz worktops will be fabricated and installed to an exceptional level of quality. Stone held in stock can be viewed at their factory in Charlwood Surrey, or small samples can be requested and sent by post.  Get in touch either by using the Contact Form or calling us on 01293 863992

Read More

Home upgrade with quartz kitchen worktops

 

If you have moved into a new home with a kitchen that doesn’t reflect your design preference and life style, upgrading the space may well be your main priority. Choosing the right kitchen work surfaces is an essential element in the planning process, as they directly impact both the functionality and ambiance of the space. As a multifunctional hub, the kitchen is commonly a natural gathering spot, where the daily routines of cooking, eating, and socialising take place, especially in an open-plan design concept. Installing quartz kitchen worktops will not only transform the aesthetics, it will also provide a hard-wearing surface which will withstand constant use and retain a pristine appearance. Affordable Granite is a family- owned company based in Charlwood Surrey, specialising in the fabrication and fitting of high quality quartz kitchen worktops, with all the expertise available to provide helpful advice during the planning of your new upscaling project.

One of the most noticeable effects of installing kitchen quartz worktops is the immediate visual upgrade. Remodelling a tired-looking kitchen with sleek quartz surfaces can dramatically modernise the space. Quartz is an engineered stone which is available in an eclectic range of shades and patterns, from subtle and neutral tones to bold, statement-making designs which will complement any style of cabinetry. It can mimic the warm appearance of natural stone or offer sleek, modern styling, with adaptability to both contemporary and traditional kitchens. Its polished surface adds a touch of elegance and luxury, enhancing the overall look of the base cabinets, whether it’s rustic wood, minimalist white, or bold vibrant finishes.

Beyond the eye-appeal, quartz kitchen worktops are known for their durability. Unlike laminate or wooden surfaces that may show signs of wear, such as scratches, stains, or water damage, quartz is non-porous and highly resistant to these issues. These hard-wearing properties ensure that your new kitchen will maintain its upgraded appearance for years to come without the need for constant upkeep or the cost of early replacement.

Affordable Granite only supply and fit high-grade quartz Kitchen worktops which have undergone diligent quality control checks at every stage of the installation. Work is never outsourced, and the in-house team of craftsmen are customer-focused and committed to ensuring that your new kitchen will be completed to the highest standard of excellence. For more information or to book an appointment call us on 01293 863992 or use the contact form to get in touch.

Read More

Why install quartz kitchen worktops

 

When you are planning you to install a new kitchen or are upgrading an existing culinary space in your home, choosing the right work surface is paramount. AffordableGranite in a family-owned company based in Surrey, specialising in the fabrication and installation of high quality stone worktops. Their experienced and friendly team are always available to give professional advice to ensure you make informed decisions compatible with your lifestyle and preferred interior ambiance.

Stone work surfaces in the kitchen have out-classed less durable materials such as laminates, which may initially have a lower cost, but can’t compete in withstanding years of use, and will over time require replacement. You may have considered granite as an option, but find the variance in pattern and shade throughout the slab less appealing. Quartz kitchen worktops have become increasingly popular due to their ability to replicate the appearance of natural stones such as granite and marble, while offering enhanced exceptionally hard-wearing properties and ease of maintenance. As an engineered stone, providing the quartz is from the same consignment, the colours and patterns in the slabs will be consistent. This is achieved through advanced manufacturing processes and innovative design techniques that mimic the intricate patterns and colours found in natural stone.

The pigments play a crucial role in the final appearance of the fabricated quartz, allowing manufacturers to create a wide range of colours and patterns that mimic natural stone so closely, that to the untrained eye the difference in undetectable. This provides an eclectic spectrum of colour ranging from bold and dramatic, to the subtle shades of soft whites and cream, giving the option for customisation to any interior design scheme and kitchen layout. You may also prefer quartz over granite or marble, as there will be no naturally occurring fissures or pitting in the surface.

Quartz kitchen worktops also offer other advantages. Unlike natural stones, quartz is non-porous, due to the binding resin combined during manufacture. This gives a resistance to stains and bacterial growth, with no requirement for regular sealing. Additionally, quartz is highly durable and scratch-resistant, making it an ideal choice for busy kitchens.

Established in 2003, Affordable Granite has achieved a high reputation for the supply and installation of superb quality quartz kitchen worktops for customers throughout the South East of England and beyond. Choosing quartz for your kitchen project will combine personal style with practicality in the home hub, and long-term satisfaction.  Call us today on 01293 863992 or use the Contact Form on our website to get in touch.

Read More

Complementing your cabinets with quartz kitchen worktops in Guildford

If you have already chosen your new cabinetry or are re-furbishing existing units, installing quartz for your kitchen worktops in Guildford provides a solution to create not only a stunning visual affect, but also to benefit from high durability which will stand the test of time.  Although quartz is an engineered stone, unlike marble or granite, nevertheless this man-made product has its distinct advantages.

The engineering process involves combining 90% of natural quartz with fragments of other minerals, which are then bound together with a polymer resin. The result is a virtually indestructible composite and with the addition of pigments, the colour range is vast.

Horizontal work surfaces will be in high focus, setting the ambiance for the overall kitchen design scheme and should never be underestimated. The Affordable Granite team appreciate that this is a long-term investment and with their wealth of experience they can advise on the best quality quartz available, without going over budget.

Culinary habits in the home have undergone something of a renaissance in recent years, with exotic dishes and ingredients no longer being the sole domain of the restaurants. Quartz kitchen worktops in your Guildford home provide an ideal food preparation area for even the most adventurous cooks, with an easy to clean surface which is non-porous, resistant to stains and the growth of bacteria.

With the growing trend in multi-functional and open-plan kitchen-living areas, the choice of quartz for the surface areas introduces a strong statement of not only the home lifestyle, but also determines the personality of the interior design. Affordable Granite hold an impressive selection of quartz slabs in their workshops where advice can be given to help you achieve whatever affect you are looking for, whether that may be classic, contemporary or a more rustic environment.

Quality and care are the key factors the Affordable Granite team can give you to help you to achieve the kitchen you want and long for.   With the talents of our experienced stonemasons and a dedicated in-house templating and installation team, the result can be a kitchen you will love to come home to and one you will be reluctant to leave.  Call us today on 01293 863992 to speak with a member of our friendly team.

Read More

Choosing Quartz Worktops- Things You Should Know

If you are looking for a hard-wearing and attractive material for kitchen worktops, quartz is probably one of the best options available. According to Affordable Granite, a specialist Quartz Company, the surface of quartz is durable and stylish and it can add glamour and style to your kitchen. Here are few things you should know about quartz worktops.

How is quartz made?

You might be surprised to see the description “man-made” on some quartz kitchen worktops, given how much like a natural stone they can look. In fact, all ‘quartz worktops’ are made of a processed stone: quartz, glass, metal, even mirror are blended with 7% resins and dyes to achieve what can be a natural effect. You can find a huge variety of colour in quartz due to this chemical processing, making it suitable for any kitchen décor. The surface of quartz stone is hard and non-porous in nature.

What are the customisation options in quartz kitchen tops?

Since quartz is a manmade stone which involves mixing of materials, it provides countless customisation options in terms of colour, texture and pattern. For example, you can mix small pieces of metals or flecks of glass in the final mix to get a translucent or glittering effect on your quartz kitchen worktop.

Is quartz environmentally friendly?

Many quartz worktops are made using recycled materials, and byproducts of other aspects of the stone industry. The materials and manufacturing process used in the making of quartz is also intrinsically low in carbon emissions. Transport is generally by container, always by sea freight, which is highly efficient compared to other transport modes. 

How can I maintain my quartz kitchen tops?

Quartz worktops need less maintenance than light-coloured natural stone (granite), and it would not be wrong to say they are very close to being maintenance free. Simple cleaning with a wet cloth followed by buffing with a dry cloth is normally enough. More stubborn or dried on dirt or staining can be attacked with normal kitchen detergent. For the most stubborn marks, we would recommend Cif or similar, and we have not had a stain on quartz yet that hasn’t responded to this treatment. You should avoid using hard or abrasive chemicals for cleaning as they can damage the surface of a quartz countertop.

Quartz is a human-engineered stone which contains resins; it is not heat-resistant above 180°C. Therefore, you should avoid placing hot pans or pots directly on the surface of quartz worktops. The resins used in manufacturing are not indestructible and you need to be careful when putting hot utensils on quartz worktops.

Read More

Advantages and Disadvantages of using Quartz Worktops

When you are thinking about updating your kitchen, you need to take a lot into account. The process of choosing the right products to create the kitchen of your dreams can be very stressful. When it comes to installing a new kitchen worktop, Quartz kitchen worktops are gaining in popularity these days.

By knowing the pro’s and con’s of using Quartz worktops, you will have a clear understanding of whether quartz kitchen worktops are right for you:

Pros

•    Non-permeable

Quartz worktops are manufactured from engineered stone, a man made material with many of the qualities of natural rock. Particles of quartz and other minerals are bonded with a plastic resin to create a hard, non-porous composite which machines and polishes like granite. Quartz worktops are easy to clean as they do not allow liquids to seep in and cause stains.  They can actually be better at resisting stains than natural stone worktops.  Because they do not have pores they inhibit the growth of bacteria and other micro-organisms and so they can be considered to be more hygienic.

•    Resistance to heat

Quartz offers substantial resistance to heat when compared to the alternative synthetic options. They do not bend or buckle when touched by hot frying pans or pots.

•    Resistance to crack

They are more impact-resistant than many other types of materials used in kitchen worktops because of the presence of the flexible and elastic resin in between the crushed quartz pieces. Whilst they are scratch resistant, in fact it is not advisable to use sharp knives directly over the quartz countertop as they can blunt the knives!

•    Easy to maintain

Unlike marble and granite they do not require sealing. Other than the regular cleaning, you need not do anything to maintain the quartz worktops.

Cons

•    Costly

It is a high-end product with unique qualities. It can initially be thought to be expensive however the ease of maintenance, its longevity and hygienic benefits makes up for its upfront cost. In the longer term quartz worktops can prove to be a sound investment

•    Engineered material

For those who love the patterns and colours of natural products like marble and granite, a quartz worktop might be a disappointment.

If you are interested in buying Quartz worktop, contact us at Affordable Granite to find out more.

Read More